Researchers from The University of Oxford have warned that an increase in building in the capital will put pressure on the government’s new flood insurance scheme, Flood Re. Reduced permeability of the ground could cause a sharp spike in the likelihood of flooding caused by surface runoff.
A recent study released last month by university outlined that increased house building in London will put pressure on Flood Re due to increase surface water flooding.
The initiative is set to launch in April and is comprised of a 25-year plan that will be enforced by the government to ensure that all households at high risk of flooding, and constructed before 2009, have access to affordable flood insurance.
However, researchers warn that as new buildings are commissioned, the catchment of older properties vulnerable to flood risk will increase significantly. It has been suggested that policymakers should adapt the plan to include incentives for the development of urban drainage systems and a greater investment in flood barriers and home pumps.
For more information on Flood Re, or how this new initiative is likely to affect you, please contact London Drainage Facilities today.